Brunswick bakery named Retailer of the Year

The award is given each year to a retailer that exhibits continued growth in employees or sales, commitment of company resources to community projects, and creation of a positive work environment for all employees, according to a media release.

More specifically, the association’s board of directors chose Wild Oats Bakery because its owners, David and Becky Shepherd, invested in and expanded the business during the recent recession; because it sources local ingredients; and has committed substantial resources to local educational, environmental, wellness and community organizations, according to the release.

David and Becky Shepherd founded the business in 1991.

“Wild Oats Bakery & Cafe is an excellent selection for this year’s award,” Curtis Picard, the association’s executive director, said in a statement. “As they enter their 21st year of operation, they continue to expand, hire dedicated and loyal employees and are an anchor of the downtown Brunswick community.”

Becky Shepherd said she was excited for the honor, but shared the credit. “We wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers, our dedicated employees, and the Brunswick-area community who have supported us throughout the years,” she said in a statement.

The award will be presented to the company at the association’s 79th annual meeting on Oct. 25 at the Portland Regency Hotel in Portland.

The Maine Merchant Association has presented the annual award since 1980.